Blueprint For Mobile Mapping: A Case Study
Recommendations
The prototype was successful and provided the information needed about the hardware and
software configuration to move to the next step. User acceptance was high at the conclusion of
the prototype, and they embraced the proposed system with open arms.
The final recommendation was to proceed with a pilot with the following components:
- A generic off-the-shelf docking station.
- A laptop computer with an integrated CD-ROM, a track pointer pointing device, minimum
of a 486/66 and 16 megabytes of RAM.
- Modifications to the software were needed.
- Printers needed to be looked at further.
- A briefcase option could be used if smaller and more usable.
Pilot Evaluation
In the Fall of 1995, the pilot phase of the project was conducted. The objective of the pilot phase
was to install the technology, verify the anticipated business benefits, and develop a final
recommendation to present to Union’s management.
Pilot Design
The focus of the pilot was expanded from the prototype to more fully test and evaluate the
complete solution (hardware, software, mounting, environmentals) and to update the project
economics which would be included in a proposed project implementation plan. The pilot
consisted of the following:
- Six field reps from five different areas with different j ob functions (line locates, field
inspections, maintenance)
- Two different models of laptop computers
- Two different mounting configurations
- with vehicle pedestal on transmission hump
- with mount on an existing desk within a van
- Updated map viewing application on all six units
Each field representative used the system for four months and communicated comments back to
the coordinating committee.
Findinm
The following were our findings after the four month period:
- Two different laptop computers were used. One was a faster and more high-end computer.
The other was a mid-line computer. Two users received the low-end and the other four
received the high-end computers. The high-end computers performed better with the
mapping application because of the faster processors and larger screens.
- The integrated CD-ROM players had no failures and worked very well.
- The software performed well, without any major problems. A few more enhancements were
found to be needed for full implementation of the system.
- It was found that frequent updates of data CDs would be needed. (The recommended
frequency for now will remain every other month).
- The docking station proved to be mostly acceptable with a few minor modifications.
- Environmental - A primary concern of the team was that the harsh operating environment
in the vehicle and throughout the franchise would make it difficult to operate electronic
equipment. Some of the environmental factors considered were:
- Temperature - During the pilot, when temperatures dropped quite low for this part of the
country, all units remained in the vehicles and continued to perform without any apparent
trouble.
- Vibration - Rubber isolation mounts on the top plate of the pedestal docking station
proved to be sufficient during the pilot with no apparent problems.
- Moisture - Excess moisture can be quite prevalent during the winter months, particularly
in the back of the line locate (non insulated) vans. The units, however, are sealed and did
not present a problem to the unit.
- Sunlight - The units are almost always used inside the vehicle and on a swivel base which
can be turned away from direct sunlight. This was deemed to be acceptable.
- Dust - Although some of the vehicles are very dusty, being used in construction sites, it
did not cause any problems.
- Security - By selecting a generic off-the-shelf mounting bracket we somewhat open
ourselves to a more easily removed PC which could result in theft. Locking the vehicles
would be very important.
Recommendations
The pilot project was completed after four months. It was very successful and provided the
coordinating committee the information needed to recommend full implementation.
Upon completion of the pilot project, the committee presented their recommendations to
management. The hardware and software performed satisfactorily, and the benefits delivered to
the users were confirmed.
In February 1996, the recommendation for full implementation was approved.
Rollout and Implementation
Final Ecmipment Specifications
The recommended approach was to purchase generic, “off-the-shelf” laptop PCs, which come at
a lower cost and with a longer warranty period, but with the realization that they are not the most
ruggedized. As a rule of thumb, it is recommended that the manufacturer’s operating conditions
be followed at all times. By following the manufacturer’s operating conditions, we are ensured
that the PCs will be 100 percent warranted for full parts and labour for three years.
Thus, it is advocated that all PC units be brought inside after normal working hours during the
cold winter months. The storage temperature range for the PC units is between -20C and 60C (-4F
and 140F). The ideal operating temperature range is between 5C and 35C (4 lF and 95 F).
Based on the pilot results, specific equipment was deployed as follows:
- Toshiba colour laptop PC with internal CD-ROM (Model: Satellite Pro 4 10CDT) running
Windows 95 (Specific models being implemented may change from one Division to
another, as newer models become available with improved price/performance and/or
requirements change.)
- UNIVIRS data on CD-ROM
- Pedestal mounting units
“ Laptop hard-cover bag (optional)
- Software - Byers Map Viewer software, providing for the following functionality (note: this
is the same viewing software as used in the office):
- seamless graphical map viewing
- viewing of descriptive attributes for a selected facility
- viewing of station schematics
- zoom irdout, panning
- measuring tool
- access by address,street intersection, valve #, station #, map grid #
Roll-Out Strategy
As with any system, there is always room for new enhancements and features. Union anticipated
this and decided to stage the introduction of new soilware features, many of which are already
developed. User acceptance is key to project success and a “keep it simple” approach for initial
roll-out was adopted. Union was concerned that if all the functionality was implemented at once,
“technology overload” would set in and user acceptance would be weak. As the system is
embraced by the field and their comfort level increases, the additional functionality will be
delivered and training provided.
Future Plans
The following additional project features will be finalized and implemented in the months ahead:
Printing
Printing remains a high priority. Although not requested by everyone, it is beneficial for
applications such as line locates.
Redlining
This should prove to be an effective tool to facilitate data corrections. This is existing
functionality in the software, and thus can be implemented at minimal cost. It permits the field
representative to sketch and annotate (with text and/or pre-defined symbols) any
drawing/correction without changing the original record.
Construction and Maintenance Procedures
Union is currently working on re-writing their construction and maintenance procedure manual.
It is being incorporated into a new electronic environment, to facilitate hypertext linking of
related sections, enhanced graphics, and use of multimedia technology. When ready, it will be
made available to the field representatives on CD-ROM, for use with this system.
Trace
This software fi.mction can assist with locating valves and isolating an area for shutdownh-elight.
Service address listings can be generated for the identified area. This is existing functionality in
the viewing software, and thus can be implemented at minimal cost.
Spatial Query
This feature will allow users to perform “ad hoc” queries of the AM/FM system. A user could
show, for example, the total amount of pipe for taxing purposes and the number of valves
needing inspection for a certain area.
Database Updates
A future release of the software will enable field workers to place attribution and symbology
representing AM/FM features. The data will be uploaded to the UNIVIRS system, thus speeding
the approval process for new and changing facilities.
Software releases
Ease of distribution of future releases, or updates of the Map Viewer software will be provided
by having the application software reside directly on the data CD. In this way, updates to the data
and the application can be more easily distributed to the users.
Implementation Status
Six divisions are now filly implemented with a total of161 Toshiba laptop computers deployed
to the field. The remainder is being implemented in conjunction with the UNIVIRS
implementation schedule over the next year.
A training program has been developed and is being provided internally by project personnel.
There is a two-level training course, one for field workers that are familiar with Windows,
another for those without PC experience. The training sessions cover both the care and use of the
equipment and the functioning of the application.
Project Results
The primary goal of the Microfilm Replacement Project is to provide field workers with the same
GIS information that is available in the office, so that the field worker has all of the information
necessary to make informed decisions in a more responsive manner. By having a highly
informed work force armed with the appropriate technology, Union’s business goals can be met.
The following are some comments made by those that participated in our prototype and pilot
testing:
“There is no reason to call in. I have not called in since I got the system installed.”
“This gives me much more information on a job site. The microfiche does not have the
measurements or the services. I don’t have to call for this information anymore.”
“I would like to see the work orders and new business on this system as well.”
“The system is definitely faster than the microfiche system.”
“It makes the maps easier to read.”
